Syrian refugees who are fleeing conflict in their home country will be welcomed to Edinburgh after councillors today agreed to take part in a relocation project.

Members of the Communities and Neighbourhoods Committee approved a report recommending that the capital takes part in the UK Government's Syrian Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme, which will involve up to five of the war-torn country's most needy families being homed in Edinburgh.

Councillor Maureen Child, Convener of the Communities and Neighbourhoods Committee, said: "As a city we are keen to provide support and assistance to those in need, and charities like Mercy Corps and Edinburgh Direct Aid have been striving to make a difference for those suffering in Syria.

"We now aim to build on this work by considering proposals to resettle some of the most vulnerable refugees in Edinburgh, and we welcome the backing of so many members of the community for the scheme."